50 Beautiful Pics Of Ukraine That Are Heartbreaking To See Right Now

We reached out to Alina Kisina, a Ukrainian-born photographer, artist, curator, and advocate for creativity working in the UK. In her work, she tries to find harmony in chaos through universal human qualities that reach beyond location, gender and social background. "I'm heartbroken and worried sick about everyone in Ukraine, not just my parents, childhood friends, and creative partners," she told Bored Panda.

"Putting the complex history, political dynamic and conspiracy theories to one side for a minute, I'm simply in pain for all those human beings who, just like most of us, were peacefully going about their daily life, working, raising children, creating something, saving for a vacation and now suddenly have to hide in a bomb shelter, flee and fight for their country and its basic freedoms," Alina said.

"I feel their fear and devastation, but also their courage and determination. And although I share the optimism, it's still going to be messy and tragic, and the cost will be not only human life today, but resentment and hatred for generations to come."

Alina moved to the UK when she was 19 and since then has created her home there. However, she revealed that Ukraine is a place of great inspiration and creative freedom she connects to every time she’s there. "It has its own fresh creative energy, irresistible buzz, and infectious ambition oozing out of so many passionate people who manage to do truly great things in art, culture, and education with very limited resources," she added.

"Ukraine is a beautiful country with its tremendous history and stunning natural reserves. I have a soft spot for Ukraine's many rivers, especially those that flow through cities like Kyiv, Dnipro, and Uzhgorod."

The artist recounted that her special place of respite is "a tiny village in the middle of nowhere in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains in Zakarpattia — a perfect hidden place to recharge and enjoy the simple life in serenity."

Ukraine’s nature, architecture, and landscapes are truly breathtaking, and its culture is strong in many traditions: music, art, cuisine, and more. The country has deep customs, wealthy talent, and a long cultural legacy. People there are known for their soft and generous hospitality, even when they’re facing the most difficult times in their lives.

According to Alina, Ukraine's culture is rich, colorful, and vibrant. "I'm a big fan of Ukrainian folk music with all its playfulness and cheer but also beautiful soulful sadness — both translate into the contemporary music scene beautifully."

Today, people all over the world feel inspired by the brave defenders fighting on the streets and outskirts of the attacked cities. The Ukrainian flag is everywhere — waved in the air by thousands marching in protests, draped from the balconies in both big and small cities, attached as pins to the jackets of everyone showing support. People are ready to help, showing great faith in the future of this land.

"My sincere hope is that Ukraine will successfully send Putin back home and avoid further human losses, let alone a potential nightmare of this war turning into a full-blown global conflict," Alina told us.

She wishes that Ukraine "will have a chance to recover from the shock and trauma of what for many is simply a betrayal. That the country will find the strength to transcend this devastating experience and turn it into a powerful source of togetherness, wisdom and the greatness they bring. That their new cultural identity will help build a new present and a new future, allowing the country's creativity to flourish and make this world a better and more beautiful place."

"Like any war, even the best of possible scenarios will bring a lot of tragic consequences. Instead of strengthening cultural links and understanding between people, it will multiply separation and hatred which will take decades to undo."

Alina concluded by saying that "too many people on either side of this war had no interest in it, yet they will pay the price. Perhaps it's too early to think about it but I'm already asking myself: what will it take and what can we do to not only repair the damage and bring healing but also make sure it doesn't happen again?"